Salmon is one of the most nutritious and delicious fish you can eat. With its bright orange flesh, velvety texture, and savory flavor, it’s no wonder salmon is such a popular choice.
If you find yourself constantly craving salmon there are some clear reasons behind these persistent urges. Let’s explore the possible causes and what your salmon cravings are trying to tell you about your health.
Your Body Needs More Protein
Protein is absolutely essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle growth, bone strength, and proper immune function. Salmon contains high-quality complete protein with all the essential amino acids your body requires.
A 3 ounce serving of salmon provides about 22 grams of protein. If you’ve recently cut out meat or started a very low carb diet, you could be lacking sufficient daily protein. When this happens, strong cravings for protein-rich foods like salmon kick in.
Make sure you’re also eating eggs, dairy, beans, lentils, nuts and seeds to meet your protein needs. If your salmon craving persists, it likely means you need to re-evaluate your diet and increase high protein foods.
You Have an Omega-3 Deficiency
Salmon is one of the best natural sources of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. It provides high amounts of EPA and DHA, two key fatty acids that are vital for brain function heart health, eye health, fetal development and more.
Since our bodies don’t produce these good fats, we must obtain them through oily fish like salmon. If you rely heavily on processed foods and omega-6 vegetable oils, you may be deficient in omega-3s. Your salmon cravings could indicate your body recognizes you need more omega-3 fats immediately.
Aim to eat salmon at least twice a week to increase omega-3 intake and help resolve deficiency. Other oily fish like sardines, trout and herring are great options too.
Your Body May Require More Iodine
Iodine is a trace mineral that is essential for healthy thyroid function and metabolism. Salmon happens to be very high in iodine, providing over 100% of your daily needs in a 3 ounce portion.
If you’ve been experiencing symptoms of iodine deficiency like fatigue, dry skin and constipation, your sudden salmon craving makes sense. Consuming more iodine-rich seafood like salmon can help replenish levels of this mineral that your thyroid depends on.
You’re Low in Vitamin D
Salmon is one of the few natural food sources that provides vitamin D, with about 31% of your daily value per serving. Vitamin D deficiency is extremely common especially in the winter months when sunlight exposure is limited.
Symptoms like frequent sickness, muscle weakness, bone pain and depression can indicate low vitamin D. Your salmon cravings may be a response to needing more of this important vitamin that salmon can provide.
Besides salmon, get more vitamin D from sardines, egg yolks, fortified milk and supplements. Aim for at least 600 IU of vitamin D per day.
You Enjoy the Taste and Texture
Sometimes a craving is just a craving! If you’ve always loved the tender, rich texture of salmon and savored its flavor, your brain has wired itself to frequently desire this combination.
The healthy fats in salmon trigger dopamine release for a pleasant, satisfied feeling. From crispy salmon skin to creamy poached salmon, your salmon obsession may be related to the sensory joy it brings your palate and its nutritional quality.
It’s a Nostalgic Comfort Food
Specific food cravings can be rooted in positive memories and emotions. Your salmon craving may stem from enjoying smoked salmon bagels every Sunday morning growing up, for example.
When you crave salmon, it activates fond memories of family meals and traditions. While any nutrition deficiencies should still be addressed, don’t ignore the power of comfort and nostalgia certain foods can provide.
Tips for Salmon Lovers
- Choose wild Alaskan salmon for superior omega-3 content and minimal contaminants
- Bake, grill or pan sear instead of deep frying for heart healthy preparation
- Experiment with globally inspired salmon recipes to prevent taste fatigue
- Limit salmon to 12 ounces per week to avoid excess mercury exposure
- Pair salmon with plenty of antioxidants like lemon, parsley and dill
The bottom line: Salmon cravings are generally a sign your body recognizes it needs more of its beneficial nutrients. Lean into the cravings and make salmon a regular part of a nutritious diet, while addressing any potential nutritional shortfalls or imbalances you may have.
You enjoy eating fish or you’re looking for variety
What your food cravings are trying to tell you is a nuanced subject. And in some cases, like with fish, it might be something as simple as you enjoying that particular type of food. Perhaps you like its texture or taste. Or maybe an over-baked halibut reminds you of your childhood. It could also mean that youre looking for variety in your diet.
While dietitians believe that certain cravings — for example craving salt, ice, fatty foods, and chocolate — could be indicative of some health concerns, theres just not enough evidence to suggest that all cravings have to do with a nutrient deficiency.
As registered dietitian nutritionist Sharon Palmer told Prevention, “There is very little science-based evidence on food cravings linked to nutritional deficiencies. And if food cravings were related to something you need, then wouldnt you be craving kale or apples, not ice cream and French fries? Instead, people tend to crave foods that are rich in fats, carbs, and sugar.”
What am I craving today | Salmon Nigiri at home. #food #salmon#sushi
FAQ
FAQ
What am I lacking if I crave salmon?
Fish are naturally high in fatty acids like omega-3, so craving fish may be mean that you need more omega-3 in your diet. Other symptoms to watch out for if you’re deficient in omega-3 could be dry skin, dry eyes, or lower moods.
Why do I want to eat salmon?
Beyond its unique flavor profile and versatility, salmon is considered one of the world’s most nutritious fish. “Salmon offers a wide variety of nutrients and benefits including protein, healthy fats, and it’s loaded with vitamins and minerals,” says Wilson Sanchez, a clinical registered dietitian based in New York.
What are you deficient in when you crave fish?
Sudden, specific food cravings, beyond the usual sweet or salty desires, might signal nutrient deficiencies like Vitamin B12. Craving meat, fish, or eggs could indicate a B12 shortage, especially in older adults, potentially causing irritability or memory issues.
Why do I feel better when I eat salmon?
Studies suggest that eating more salmon—rich in omega-3s—can help reduce symptoms of depression and improve overall mood.Apr 16, 2025